Juno-winning pianist Philip Chiu to perform in Brantford this month

Juno Award-winning pianist Philip Chiu will perform his Scatter and Sway program at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts on April 29 at 7:30 p.m., presented by the Brantford Music Club as the finale of its 2025-26 concert series.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

A Juno Award-winning pianist will take centre stage at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts later this month as the Brantford Music Club wraps up its 2025-26 concert series.

Philip Chiu is scheduled to perform April 29 at 7:30 p.m., bringing his latest program, Scatter and Sway, to local audiences in what organizers describe as a rare opportunity to experience a nationally acclaimed classical artist in Brantford. 

Chiu, a Juno Award winner for his album Fables, has built a reputation as a dynamic performer who “transforms each musical idea into a beautiful array of colours,” according to promotional material. He performs widely as both a soloist and chamber musician across Canada and internationally, collaborating with leading artists and ensembles. 

Mary Ann Gorcsi, speaking on behalf of the Brantford Music Club, said the organization’s artist selection committee was drawn to Chiu’s accomplishments and strong reviews when planning the season.

“We knew we had to have him on the Sanderson stage, and the stars aligned with his concert schedule and our stage availability,” she told The Paris Independent. 

Audiences can expect a program that blends traditional classical works with more contemporary repertoire, offering what organizers describe as an engaging and accessible musical experience. 

Bringing performers of Chiu’s calibre to the community remains a key priority for the club, particularly as opportunities to hear live classical piano can be limited in smaller centres.

“It is so important to bring an artist of Philip Chiu’s calibre to our community as we rarely have classical piano performers,” Gorcsi noted, adding that such performances can be especially inspiring for young music students.  

The concert is intended to appeal to a broad audience, from seasoned classical music enthusiasts to newcomers.

“All people who enjoy the sound of beautiful piano music, young and old, should attend,” Gorcsi said. Founded in the early 1900s, the Brantford Music Club traces its roots to informal gatherings of local women who met to share music at a downtown shop. Over more than a century, the organization has evolved while maintaining its core mission — bringing live music to the community and fostering appreciation for the arts.

That tradition continues today, with each concert followed by a complimentary reception where attendees can meet performers and discuss the program.

Tickets for the April 29 performance are $35 for adults and $10 for students (with a student ID), while children in Grade 8 and under can attend for free. Tickets are available through the Sanderson Centre box office and website.